CT and MR Diagnosis of Central Neurocytoma

Objective:To study CT and MR features of central neurocytoma (CNC) in order to improve our know- ledge to this rare entity.Methods:CT and MR findings in 5 cases of pathologically proved CNC were retrospectively analyzed.The patients included 3 males and 2 femals,aged 22~50 with the average of 39.6 years.Results:All tumors were located at the septum pellucidum and close to monro′s foramen,presented as iso-density or slightly high density on CT,iso- or slightly hyposignal intensity on MR T_1WI,and mixed hypersignal intensity on T_2WI.Cystic degeneration within the tumor were seen in most cases.The tumors had sharp borders.The lesion showed a marked inhomogeneous enhancement on CT and MRI.Conclusion:CNC should be considered when a mass locating at septum pellucidum is found in a young adult.CT and MR is helpful in making a preoperative diagnosis.